Division faculty collaborate with cancer researchers nationwide to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of different cancer detection, prevention and treatment options. With funding and support from the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, National Institute of Health (NIH) and other prestigious funding sources, the division produces ground-breaking and practice-changing research.
Active Research
Principal Investigator: Lisa Landrum, MD, PhD
Contact: iutrials@iu.edu
This study aims to compare the rates of lower extremity limb dysfunction in patients with apparent uterine confined endometrial cancer randomized to one of two lymphatic assessment strategies at time of hysterectomy: Sentinel lymph node mapping and excision followed by side-specific lymphadenectomy on sides without a sentinel lymph node (SLN) identified according to a National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines approved algorithm (Arm 1); Sentinel lymph node mapping and excision according to an NCCN Guidelines approved algorithm followed by bilateral pelvic +/- para-aortic lymphadenectomy (Arm 2).
This study aims to compare the rates of lower extremity limb dysfunction (defined as a \>= 4-point increase in Gynecologic Cancer Lymphedema Questionnaire \[GCLQ\] symptom score from baseline) in patients with apparent uterine confined endometrial cancer randomized to one of two lymphatic assessment strategies at time of hysterectomy: Sentinel lymph node mapping and excision followed by side-specific lymphadenectomy on sides without a sentinel lymph node (SLN) identified according to a National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines approved algorithm (Arm 1); Sentinel lymph node mapping and excision according to an NCCN Guidelines approved algorithm followed by bilateral pelvic +/- para-aortic lymphadenectomy (Arm 2).
Principal Investigator: Jessica Parker, MD
Contact: Ashley Sheets, CRPS
Olvi-Vec (olvimulogene nanivacirepvec, aka GL-ONC1, laboratory name: GLV-1h68) is an oncolytic vaccinia virus-based immunotherapy. This study is to test the hypothesis that the combination of Olvi-Vec followed by further chemotherapy is particularly effective against established tumors by virus-mediated immune activation and re-sensitization of tumor cells to chemotherapy. Participant population includes histologically confirmed non-resectable platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer (PRROC). Determination of progression-free survival, safety and overall survival are key objectives. Participants randomized into the Experimental Arm will receive a single-cycle (2 infusions on two consecutive days) of Olvi-Vec through an intraperitoneal catheter. The catheter is then removed, and patients receive systemically administered platinum-doublet chemotherapy and bevacizumab. The control arm receives the Physician's Choice of chemotherapy and bevacizumab at the same dose and schedule. Biological samples will be obtained from some Experimental Arm participants for virus-shedding testing. Assessment of response to treatment in both arms will be by RECIST 1.1 and iRECIST as assessed by Blinded Independent Central Review. Maintenance/continued treatment with non-platinum chemotherapy and bevacizumab is dependent on a participant being clinically stable until confirmed progressive disease by iRECIST or can no longer tolerate therapy.
IU Lead: Sharon Robertson, MD, MPH
Contact: Ashley Sheets, CRPS
This phase II trial studies how well niraparib and dostarlimab work for the treatment of cervical cancer that has come back (recurrent) or is growing, spreading, or getting worse (progressive). Niraparib may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. Immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies, such as dostarlimab, may help the body's immune system attack the cancer, and may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Giving niraparib and dostarlimab may kill more tumor cells in patients with cervical cancer.
Principal Investigator: Jessica Parker, MD
Contact: iutrials@iu.edu
Mirvetuximab Soravtansine (MIRV) is an investigational antibody drug conjugate designed to selectively kill cancer cells. The antibody (protein) part of MIRV targets tumors by delivering a cell-killing drug to the tumor cells carrying a tumor-associated protein called folate receptor alpha (FRα). It is being developed as maintenance therapy for the treatment of subjects with recurrent platinum-sensitive, highgrade epithelial ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancers with high folate receptor-alpha expression. Patients must have confirmation of FRα positivity by the Ventana FOLR1 Assay.